FAQ
YES!
Bonita School Ministries’(BSM) Bible Education is legal and constitutional. BSM is a unique program in which public schools release students for a part of the school day to attend off-site religious instruction. It recognizes and reinforces the constitutionally protected right of parents to direct the religious education of their children. In Zorach v. Clauson (1952), the U.S. Supreme Court ruled that public schools may allow students to be released during school hours to attend religious instruction, as long as three requirements are met:
- Students attend Bible class off school grounds;
- With parental permission
- No state or district funds are used.
Bonita School Ministries is 100% privately funded - by churches, businesses, community organizations, and/or individuals.
Bible class schedules vary by school site, students are signed out of class by the BSM teacher. Students are allowed by law to make up any test or work collected during their Bible Education class.
To participate in BSM students must be in 3rd-8th grade at selected schools within Bonita Unified School District and have written permission from a parent or legal guardian.
By law, BSM Bible Education class must be offered off of school grounds. Our volunteer teaching staff park the Bible Bus as close as possible to the school on public property, then escort students to and from the front office to ensure their safety. The bus remains stationary during class.
A recent survey of BSM parents with children enrolled in our Bible Education classes revealed overwhelmingly positive feedback. Results reflect the lasting spiritual impact our program is having—not just in the classroom, but in the heart of the home.
- Families notice positive changes in attitude, faith conversations at home, and emotional growth.
- Students are developing a deeper relationship with God.
- Positive character growth.
- Kindness, patience, and respect are flourishing.
- Joyful learning. Kids look forward to Bible class and carry that joy home.
- Stronger family conversations. Faith is becoming a natural part of daily life.